PADI Advanced Open Water Certification on the Big Island
Take your diving to the next level with Kohala Divers. This premium 3-day experience includes 6 guided dives and the opportunity to earn up to three PADI certifications: Advanced Open Water, Enriched Air (Nitrox), and Peak Performance Buoyancy.
About the Course
6 boat dives over 3 days
Up to 3 PADI certifications
Personalized instruction from expert guides
This course is about hands-on learning, not written exams. You’ll dive deeper (literally and figuratively) with core adventure dives like Deep and Navigation, then customize your path with electives. Add on the Nitrox and Buoyancy specialties to grow your skillset even further—and come away with a wonderful sense of confidence as an advanced diver.
What You’ll Earn Through This Course
Earn Up to 3 Certifications in Just 3 Days
Complete 5 adventure dives—including Deep and Navigation—plus three elective dives of your choice. Build confidence and expand your dive range.
PADI Advanced Open Water Certification
PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Specialty (Optional)
Complete eLearning before your dives and use Nitrox to extend your bottom time. Ideal for divers looking to maximize time underwater safely.
PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy Specialty (Optional)
Through 2 buoyancy-focused dives and online study, refine your body positioning, trim, and air use to dive more efficiently and comfortably.
eLearning
Pricing & Details
Schedule
Requirements
Complete Your PADI eLearning Before Day 1
To participate in this course, you’ll need to complete the following online training:
- Advanced Open Water eLearning (Required)
Covers theory for Deep, Navigation, and three elective adventure dives.
Estimated Time: 6–8 hours
Start Advanced Open Water eLearning Here
Complete the optional eLearning courses to earn up to three certifications in the same time it takes to earn one.
- Enriched Air (Nitrox) eLearning (Optional)
Learn how to dive with Nitrox to extend bottom time and reduce fatigue.
Estimated Time: 2–3 hours
Start Enriched Air eLearning Here
- Peak Performance Buoyancy eLearning (Optional)
Focuses on body positioning, breathing, and trim for better control.
Estimated Time: 2 hours
Start Peak Performance eLearning Here
Complete all required modules before your in-water training begins.
| Certification Type | Includes | Total Course Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Boat Diving and Instruction | 6 dives of educational Advanced diving with a PADI pro | $1025 |
| Advanced Open Water Only (1 certification) | 6 dives, Advanced eLearning, certification | $1,256 |
| Advanced Bundle (3 certifications) | 6 dives, Advanced + Nitrox + Buoyancy eLearning, certification, Includes a free 1 year member ship to PADI Club | $1,640 |
Details
- 3 days of guided boat diving
- Instruction by certified PADI professionals
- Certification processing for up to 3 courses
- Personalized, small-group instruction
- Eligibility for gear discounts and future dive perks
eLearning Costs
- Advanced Open Water: $231
- Enriched Air (Nitrox) (optional) : $227
- Peak Performance Buoyancy (optional): $157
Optional Gear Rentals
- Regulator with Compass – $26/day
- BCD – $26/day
- Wetsuit – $6/day
- Underwater Camera – $45/day
- Private Instructor – $350/day
*Ask about our gear purchase packages—rentals may be waived when you buy.
Book Your Course
Call us at (808) 882-7774 or email godiving@kohaladivers.com for availability and personalized scheduling.
3 Days of Diving, 6 Training Dives Total
Complete your eLearning at your own pace before the in-water portion begins.
The in-water training takes place over three days on the boat. Want to space things out? Prefer back-to-back days? Need a private instructor? Please contact us for more information and concierge service to arrange exactly what you need for your Advanced Open Water experience!
- Day One on the boat:
7:30AM-approx 2:00PM
Peak Performance Buoyancy dives# 1 and #2 and “Thinking Like a Diver” Instruction and Paperwork.
- Day Two on the boat:
7:30AM-approx 2:00PM
Deep Dive on air and Navigation dive on Enriched Air Nitrox 32%.
- Day Three on the boat: 7:30AM-approx 2:00PM
Two more Specialty dives of your choice: Naturalist? Photography? Drift? Fish ID? Boat Diver?
Prerequisites
To enroll in the Advanced Open Water Certification, you must:
- Have a PADI Open Water Certification (or equivalent from another agency)
- Complete the Advanced Open Water eLearning or textbook coursework
- Optional: Complete eLearning for Enriched Air (Nitrox) if pursuing that certification
- Optional: Complete eLearning or textbook for Peak Performance Buoyancy
Medical Requirements
PADI Medical Form
All students must review the PADI Medical Form prior to beginning the course. If you answer “yes” to any of the health questions, you will need medical clearance signed by a physician before participating in in-water activities.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Take your diving skills to the next level with specialty certifications, hands-on training, and unforgettable dives. Join Hawaii’s trusted PADI 5-Star Dive Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PADI Advanced Open Water Certification?
This certification builds on your Open Water skills by introducing deeper dives, underwater navigation, and three elective dives that match your interests. It’s experience-based, with no final exam.
How long does the course take?
The in-water portion is completed over 3 days with 6 boat dives. You’ll complete your eLearning in advance on your own schedule.
What certifications can I earn?
With Kohala Divers’ course bundle, you’ll earn:
- PADI Advanced Open Water
- PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy Specialty
- PADI Enriched Air (Nitrox) Specialty
What are the prerequisites?
You must be Open Water certified (PADI or equivalent). You’ll also need to complete Advanced eLearning, and optionally, Enriched Air and Buoyancy eLearning if pursuing the bundle.
Is gear rental included in the price?
Gear rental is not included but is available at an additional cost. We offer discounted packages if you’re considering purchasing your own equipment.
Can I customize my elective dives?
Yes! Choose from specialties like Underwater Naturalist, Fish ID, Photography, Boat Diver, and more. We’ll help match you with the best options for your interests and conditions.
What’s the benefit of adding the Nitrox and Buoyancy specialties?
Nitrox lets you extend your bottom time and shorten surface intervals. Peak Performance Buoyancy improves your air efficiency and trim—skills that benefit every dive.
